Netflix’s New Japanese Drama With a 100% RT Score Is Already 2025’s Best New Series

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Netflix is famous for its high-quality dramas, but one of its latest releases is shattering language boundaries. Hirokazu Koreeda’s “untitled” film might be in Japanese, but this compelling drama has climbed up Netflix’s list of top performers. It embodies all the elements a drama should have, offering intense emotions and intriguing storylines that keep viewers hooked.

The show has been receiving rave reviews from viewers and critics alike, and it continues to grow in popularity. Set in 1979 Tokyo, the series centers around four sisters who learn that their father is having an affair. This revelation causes a ripple effect, unraveling their previously happy lives over the course of its brief seven-episode duration.

Netflix’s Asura is an Oddball Drama Streaming on Netflix

The Drama Series is Written & Directed by Hirokazu Koreeda

  • Production company Bunbuku also collaborated with Koreeda during Makanai.
  • The show was announced in 2024, with the first trailer dropping on December 16.

The Japanese drama “Asura” presents an intriguing twist on a familiar theme, although it’s not entirely groundbreaking. Hidden beneath its rich visuals and stunning cinematography lies the spirit of a 1970s series, “Ashura no Gotoku.” Both narratives share a similar foundation, albeit with some period-specific variations. In certain aspects, the show mirrors the overall mood of “Hiroshima Mon Amour,” stretching out each scene to ensure viewers fully grasp every action and emotion.

It doesn’t linger longer than necessary. The series moves at a more leisurely pace compared to fast-paced Western dramas like Grey’s Anatomy or Chicago Fire, but this slowness adds to its charm. In terms of details, discussing it further might reveal spoilers for this Japanese drama. The narrative starts when a father’s infidelity is unveiled publicly, leading to palpable family tension.

The narrative of the show predominantly focuses on four sisters: Tsunako Mitamura (portrayed by Rie Miyazawa), Makiko Satomi (Machiko Ono), Takiko Takezawa (Yuo Aoi), and Sakiko Takezawa (Suzu Hirose). The drama in Asura is deeply rooted in intense emotions, offering a culturally enriched exploration of love and deceit. Its fervor is comparable to the most passionate of tales. There’s also an abundance of humor and warmth. The bonds between these sisters are profound, infusing every scene with a vibrant optimism, though it may be precarious at times.

Asura Gained a Massive Fanbase & for Good Reason

Asura Had a Film Adaptation in 2003

  • Koreeda is also credited as the series’ primary editor.
  • Most filming occurred in Tokyo.

In essence, summarizing the show “Asura” without revealing spoilers can be challenging due to its complex nature, but it’s evident why people are captivated by it. At its heart, this series is an intensely intimate drama that delves deeply into a single event. The events portrayed in the series carry both logical and emotional repercussions. Despite appearing straightforward at first glance, things are rarely as simple as they seem in “Asura.” A seemingly ordinary situation of a father’s infidelity escalates rapidly into a tornado of deceit, lies, and unspoken feelings.

The strong connection among the four sisters might be what keeps the main characters together, but it’s still vulnerable, just like any other relationship. Many critics agree that each character has a tangible depth. The story seems authentic, and that’s not necessarily a negative quality. Each sister gets their moment to stand out, and it’s challenging to maintain objectivity. Excellent acting and clever direction combine to produce characters that feel incredibly human. At their most flawed, the sisters are powerfully sympathetic.

In simpler terms, The New York Times’ Margaret Lyons highly commended Asura, stating it outshines other series. Similarly, Rebecca Nicholson from The Guardian shared this viewpoint, labeling it as a “powerful, compassionate drama.” Interestingly, the 1970s backdrop might satisfy those who enjoy Downton Abbey. Despite its contrasting setting, Koreeda’s emotional drama shares the same enchanting essence with it.

This show deeply invests in its characters, making viewers share their emotions. It subtly explores complex societal issues with a delicate yet impactful approach, providing an unmatched feeling of immersion. However, please note that Asura may not appeal to everyone. Much like any quality media, this show is clear about its identity. It’s a thoughtful, deliberate exploration of themes such as agency, femininity, loyalty, and love. The mix of romance and drama might be engaging, but it might not suit those who prefer a more action-driven experience with a heightened sense of urgency.

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2025-05-04 17:24